The world’s longest tram has been introduced in the southwest of Germany, connecting the cities of Mannheim, Ludwigshafen, and Heidelberg. This giant tram measures 58.61 meters in length and can carry 368 passengers, featuring air conditioning and a top speed of 80 km/h. The tram serves as metropolitan trains, traveling both urban and inter-city routes. It can be split into sections for maintenance or to create different length trams. Manufactured by Czechia’s Škoda Group, the tram is part of a €260 million order by the transport operator, set to be fully delivered by the end of 2026. The Rhine Necktar Region (RNV) network has a history of setting tram length records, with a previous tram in the 1960s also holding the title of the world’s longest tram at the time.
An impressive record for the world’s longest passenger train was set in 2022 by a Swiss railway company. The train consisted of 100 coaches and 25 engines, measuring 1,910 meters in length and weighing nearly 3,000 tonnes. With 4,550 seats on board, the train traveled from Preda to Alvaneu, navigating up 789 meters in altitude and taking approximately 46 minutes to complete the 61-kilometer journey along the UNESCO World Heritage Albula Line. Despite its length, the train could only travel at a speed of 30 to 35 km/h. Rhaetian Railway operated the world record-breaking train in celebration of Swiss Railways’ 175th anniversary, earning a place in the Guinness Book of World Records for its extraordinary length.
The new, record-breaking tram in Germany is part of the Rhine Necktar Region network and features a modular design that allows for easy maintenance and customization. The tram’s delivery to Mannheim in September marks the beginning of a fleet expansion, with plans to fully deliver the €260 million package of trams by the end of 2026. These extra-long trams are designed to meet the growing demands of urban and inter-city transportation in the region. The 58.61-meter tram surpasses the previous record held by a tram in Budapest, measuring 55.9 meters in length and consisting of nine sections.
The Rhine Necktar Region has a history of setting tram length records, with its 38.55-meter vehicle in the 1960s also holding the title of the world’s longest tram at the time. The region’s commitment to innovation in public transportation is reflected in the introduction of the new, record-breaking tram, which offers increased capacity and comfort for passengers. With air conditioning and a top speed of 80 km/h, the tram is equipped to handle the demands of urban and inter-city travel in the southwest of Germany. The Škoda Group’s manufacturing expertise has enabled the creation of this world record-breaking tram, setting a new standard for public transportation in the region.
In conclusion, the world’s longest tram in Germany and the world’s longest passenger train in Switzerland demonstrate the advancements in public transportation infrastructure across Europe. The record-breaking tram offers increased capacity and speed for passengers traveling between Mannheim, Ludwigshafen, and Heidelberg. Likewise, the world’s longest passenger train showcases the ingenuity and engineering prowess of Swiss railways, providing a unique and memorable experience for passengers along the UNESCO World Heritage Albula Line. These achievements reflect the ongoing commitment to innovation and efficiency in public transportation, setting new standards for the future of urban and inter-city travel.
